Stories from Belgium

An EU rapporteur has called for an ambitious 2028-2034 budget to fund research, defense, and education. The proposal includes strengthening budgets for the Common Agricultural Policy.

The federal government's pension reform proposes a retirement age of 66 years. However, European regulations prohibit pilots from flying beyond the age of 65. Pension Minister Yanyam Bonne acknowledged the issue but deferred to the chamber's adoption of the texts.

The European Parliament voted for new rules intended to curb illegal wildlife trade. The regulations require dogs and cats to be fitted with microchips for identification purposes. Private pet owners have at least ten years to comply with the new microchipping mandate.

European fishing resources are projected to decrease from over 6 billion to just over 2 billion in the next programming cycle. This represents a 67 percent reduction in funding. The source noted that the numbers leave no room for interpretation.

The nuclear research center in Mol, near Antwerp, will transition to using lower-enriched uranium. This change is intended to prevent potential misuse of the material. The facility is part of the research infrastructure in the Antwerp region.

The UN Commission for Europe announced an online observatory to facilitate goods transport in the Gulf. This initiative responds to increased land traffic caused by the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.

TeleNet announced yesterday that it will discontinue its classic telecom bundles. The company's cheapest internet subscription will see an immediate price increase of 20 euros. TeleNet plans to allow customers more freedom to create customized service packages.

Researchers have developed a new DNA testing method that can collect evidence for up to five days. The resulting DNA profiles are described as purer and more accurate for comparison with reference material from male perpetrators or donors.

The European Union has passed new regulations to protect dogs and cats from mistreatment by a decisive majority. The rules mandate the microchipping and registration of animals and prohibit mutilation, specifically banning the cutting of tails and ears. New European Union regulations will mandate labeling requirements for dogs and cats to combat illegal transport from countries including Romania, Hungary, and Poland. Animal dealers and shelters must ensure animals have access to fresh water, quality food, and sufficient space. The regulation also prohibits using animals with extreme breeding traits, such as curly tails or wrinkled necks, for breeding purposes. These rules aim to improve traceability of animal origins.

European Parliament members from the Solidarity movement have nominated journalist Andrzej Poczobut for the European Peace Prize. The announcement was discussed in connection with the award's significance for human rights defenders. The source did not specify the exact date of the ceremony. The European Parliament honored Andrzej Poczobuta with a prestigious freedom award. The award was presented to highlight the situation regarding the Lukashenko regime. The broadcaster noted the prestige of the decoration in the context of current political tensions.